1. Loneliness
From reading the title of my post, I know some of you may ask “Doesn’t traveling solo get lonely sometimes?” and I’m here to say that yes it does. In fact, after traveling to several countries by myself during my time abroad I’ve realized that not being surrounded by the company of others can be unfortunate. However, loneliness does not have to destroy your time abroad. Traveling solo has helped me deal with loneliness in numerous ways. I’ve decided not to let the fear of being lonely stop me from doing what I love.
2. My Comfort Zone
Traveling solo has encouraged me to come outside my comfort zone more and to do the things that scare me the most. For instance, ever since I studied abroad I’ve found myself talking to stranger a lot more. There have been times where this has been helpful in order to get directions, find something or simply a desire to translate a phrase into English. For example, when I went to Stockholm for Spring Break I wasn’t at all too familiar with the national language, Swedish. However, all I needed was the reassurance that Swedes speak fluent English in order for me to embark on my trip and step outside the borders of Italy. Therefore, in English, I was able to communicate with various locals whenever I need a Swedish phrase translated or directions to the closest metro station.
3. Money
Certain expenses can be quite expensive or cheap when you travel by yourself. For instance, if you’re traveling with a group to an airport it’s so much easier to take a taxi since everyone can split a fare of 50 euros to the airport. However, when you’re on your own taking a taxi can become quite expensive. Therefore, before I embark on a weekend excursion I make sure to research alternative routes to the airport that will not limit me to a taxi. In Trastevere, you can take a train to the airport for 8 euros or take the H bus to Roma Termini and hop on an airport coach bus for 4 euros. As a result, traveling solo hasn’t broken my piggy bank just yet.
4. Your selfie-stick becomes your new bestie
When I first started traveling solo, I didn’t even realize the dilemma of getting my picture taken. There’s the option of asking a stranger but I personally don’t think the picture ever comes out very well. Therefore, I decided to purchase a selfie stick, a device that enables me to take a picture of myself at a wider angle than by holding the camera in my hand. My selfie stick has definitely become one of my new besties ever since I embarked on this journey abroad. I take it with me everywhere and I never forget to pack it. It’s been so helpful at times where I needed a great shot of me by a palace, a monument or a tower.
5. Some people may find it weird
Since traveling solo is not as common in our modern age, some people might find it strange. When I was crossing the border from the UK to Amsterdam, I remember the border patrol asking me “Why are traveling by yourself?”. I responded saying “Why not? I personally didn’t want to follow my roommates to Greece for Spring Break.” Accepting my response he let me through into his country but I could tell he was still confused by my choice. Therefore I realize, no matter how many times I try to explain myself not a lot of people will understand it but it’s ok.
6. You’ll learn who you truly are
While traveling solo I’ve noticed a lot of things about myself. For instance, with self reflection I’ve realized that I’m a very introspective person that likes to plan ahead on things. I’m the person that tends to take change instead of waiting on other people to do things. For instance, if I really wanted to travel Berlin one weekend, I don’t usually wait on other people to see if he or she wants to go with me. Therefore, I’m what some may call a “go-getter”, someone who doesn’t let anyone or anything stop them from achieving their goal. As a solo traveler, I think having a trait such as this is expected.
7. You’ll start appreciating the company of other people
Even when I spend time traveling on my own, there will always be a part of me that desires the company of other people. Therefore, I tend to appreciate the sweet conversations I tend to have with my hostel mates whenever I book a room. I even start valuing the company of others whenever i sign up for a group tour or a walking tour. All in all, talking to other people gives me the energy I need to make it throughout the day. Therefore I like to label myself as an ambivert.
8. It’s ok to be alone
On another note, I don’t think there’s anything wrong with having your alone time. Sometimes being around others at every moment of the day can be overwhelming. Everyone needs a little bit of alone time in order to reflect on their day. Therefore, solo traveling has made me embrace and cherish my alone time even more.
9. It’s not for everyone
On a final note, I would just like to mention that traveling solo is not for everyone and that’s completely fine. Some people prefer to share their traveling experiences with their closest friends. There are even others who might find it completely unsafe to do as a female. Lastly, some may dislike the thought of being alone. I on the other hand, travel solo in order to see the world from a different perspective.
Thank you so much for reading my post and I’ll see you at my next one!
Jade
